Compound crossbow or not?

Hello, I'm new to bow hunting, and I am considering purchasing a fairly cheaply priced crossbow, but I am confused about what is better, a compound or non-compound crossbow?

I thought at first that all non-compound crossbows were the cheap ones, and that there was a certain price point where all crossbows were higher quality and thus compound, but now that I'm searching around I'm seeing non-compound crossbows in the $500-$1500 range.

So, my question is, which is better?

I know that money makes all the difference, and like any new hobby when your getting into it the better the quality the better the experience and the more likelihood that you'll like it and stick with it, but the reality is that I'm probably forced to purchase a crossbow under $500 bucks for now.

So I guess first, I need to know if I should definitely be looking at only compound crossbows, what FPS I should consider for deer hunting, and what pound pull I should also consider.

Yes a compound has the cam so it takes some more tools to string it. The recurve has no cams the string just gets hooked over the end of the limbs, so you could do it yourself (I have). The recurve is just a lot less parts to break.

I use my girlfriend's Excalibur Phoenix since IL passed the new law and love it. I would def recommed a recurve crossbow anyday. Before you decide to get one make sure you check out Wyvern Creations and Dave will take care of you. You can get a package deal for good crossbows for around $600 with free shipping. Our family has bought 2 crossbow packages from him and you won't find a better deal anywhere.

Advantages with recurve crossbows is they tend to be lighter and more user friendly. Only disadvantage is that they are slower than compounds for most part. I would get a recurve and not think twice about it. I have an Excalibur and would never even dream of buying any other brand name. The recurve I have shoots 305 fps and bolts blow through deer at ease.

Since you are new to crossbows, I want to remind you that many states still do not allow hunting with a crossbow except for disabled persons in certain circumstances. Those that do often have special rules and regulations concerning crossbows. If you plan to hunt with one I strongly suggest you contact your states Dept. of Fish and Wildlife to see what the requirements are to hunt legally with a crossbow and what the minimum requirements for a crossbow are BEFORE you buy one.